Press Releases

RTÉ On Target To Achieve Over 30% Saving On Top 10 Presenter Fees

27 March 2013: RTÉ today releases the audited figures for the fees of the highest-paid presenters for the years 2010 and 2011. RTÉ is also disclosing the latest agreed fees for the highest-paid presenters whose contracts have now been negotiated.

In 2008 RTÉ paid €4.45million in fees to the ten highest-paid presenters. Based on the latest negotiated rates, the projected fees of the highest paid presenters in 2013 is expected to be in the region of €3 million, which is a reduction of in excess of 30% compared to 2008 levels. This is a delivery of RTÉ’s publicly stated commitment to reduce top talent fee payments by in excess of 30% compared to 2008 levels.

The figures attached illustrate the progress RTÉ has made and savings achieved in relation to presenter fees for the four published years of accounts.

In addition to these figures, RTÉ is making available the latest agreed fees* for 2012-2013 for a range of presenters. These reflect the extent of savings achieved in this regard.

In addition to changes in fee levels, RTÉ has also agreed increased levels of annual broadcast output with a range of presenters, ensuring that RTÉ has the flexibility it requires to enable it to operate with maximum cost efficiency.

In 2011 the Director General, Noel Curran, committed to reducing top presenter fees by 30% on 2008 levels. He said: “Today’s release sees RTÉ achieve our commitment. The reductions come as part of a comprehensive programme of reform across the organisation, with increased levels of efficiency and resourcefulness at its core. RTÉ, like the general public, continues to hugely value the contribution our presenters make to our public service.”

The total Top 10 presenter payments represents just over 1% of RTÉ’s operating costs in 2012 and approximately 2% of personnel related operating costs. RTÉ has reduced its 2012 operating cost levels by over €100m compared to 2008 levels, which is a reduction of 24%. In 2012 RTÉ completed a substantial organisational restructuring programme, which targeted a reduction in RTÉ’s 2013 operating costs of almost 30% against 2008 costs. RTÉ’s 2012 financial statements are in the process of being finalised and audited, and will be made available in due course.